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Yang J, Ou X, Zeng H, Shao L. A comprehensive review on p38MAPK signaling as a potent radioprotector in testis. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 39287511 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have shown that the activation of p38MAPK signaling plays a crucial role in regulating gonadal cell fate decisions in both mouse and human. Excessive activation of p38MAPK by radiation significantly causes testicular damage and negatively affects the male reproductive function. Therefore, fine-tuned regulation of p38MAPK signaling is critical in both physiological and pathological conditions. RESULT This review summarizes the impact of p38MAPK signaling on testicular germ cells and microenvironment under normal condition. The relationship between radiation, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and p38MAPK is summarized. In conclusion, radiation exposure triggers the overactivation of p38MAPK, which is regulated by ROS, resulting in testicular damage. Various p38MAPK-targeting agents are discussed, providing guidance for developing new strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Yang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Preventive and Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- School of Public Health, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiangying Ou
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Preventive and Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- School of Public Health, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Huihong Zeng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lijian Shao
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Disease Preventive and Public Health, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- School of Public Health, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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2
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Gayer FA, Klaus L, Reichardt SD, Fichtner A, Reichardt HM. Phenotype and gene signature of testicular tumors in 129.MOLF-Chr19 mice resemble human teratomas. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 39074032 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) is the most common type of tumor in young men. Type II germ cell tumors including postpubertal-type teratomas are derived from the germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS), whereas prepubertal-type teratomas arise independently of the GCNIS. The consomic mouse strain 129.MOLF-Chr19 (M19) is a suitable murine model of such tumors, but its characterization remains incomplete. OBJECTIVE Here, we interrogated the suitability of testicular tumors in M19 mice as a model of human TGCT by analyzing their histological features and gene expression signature. MATERIAL AND METHODS Testes collected from M19 mice of different ages were categorized by macroscopic appearance based on size and the degree of suspected tumorigenesis. Histological sections from selected tumors were stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin, and expression of genes associated with tumorigenesis was determined in frozen tissue samples from a large range of tumors of different subclasses using RT-qPCR and Fluidigm Dynamic Arrays. RESULTS Macroscopically, testicular specimens appeared very heterogeneous concerning size and signs indicating the presence of a tumor. Histological analysis confirmed the development of teratomas with areas of cells corresponding to all three germ cell layers. Gene expression analyses indicated upregulation of markers related to proliferation, vascular invasive potential and pluripotency, and revealed a strong correlation of gene expression with tumor size and a significant intercorrelation of individual genes. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION TGCT in M19 mice is reminiscent of human testicular teratomas presenting with areas of cells derived from all germ layers and showing a typical gene signature. We thus confirm that these mice can serve as a suitable murine model of pure teratomas for preclinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A Gayer
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Immunology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Clinic of Urology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Lucas Klaus
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Immunology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Sybille D Reichardt
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Immunology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alexander Fichtner
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Holger M Reichardt
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Immunology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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3
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Okamura D, Kohara A, Chigi Y, Katayama T, Sharif J, Wu J, Ito-Matsuoka Y, Matsui Y. p38 MAPK as a gatekeeper of reprogramming in mouse migratory primordial germ cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1410177. [PMID: 38911025 PMCID: PMC11191381 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1410177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Mammalian germ cells are derived from primordial germ cells (PGCs) and ensure species continuity through generations. Unlike irreversible committed mature germ cells, migratory PGCs exhibit a latent pluripotency characterized by the ability to derive embryonic germ cells (EGCs) and form teratoma. Here, we show that inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) by chemical compounds in mouse migratory PGCs enables derivation of chemically induced Embryonic Germ-like Cells (cEGLCs) that do not require conventional growth factors like LIF and FGF2/Activin-A, and possess unique naïve pluripotent-like characteristics with epiblast features and chimera formation potential. Furthermore, cEGLCs are regulated by a unique PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, distinct from conventional naïve pluripotent stem cells described previously. Consistent with this notion, we show by performing ex vivo analysis that inhibition of p38 MAPK in organ culture supports the survival and proliferation of PGCs and also potentially reprograms PGCs to acquire indefinite proliferative capabilities, marking these cells as putative teratoma-producing cells. These findings highlight the utility of our ex vivo model in mimicking in vivo teratoma formation, thereby providing valuable insights into the cellular mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis. Taken together, our research underscores a key role of p38 MAPK in germ cell development, maintaining proper cell fate by preventing unscheduled pluripotency and teratoma formation with a balance between proliferation and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiji Okamura
- Department of Advanced Bioscience, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Aoi Kohara
- Department of Advanced Bioscience, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Yuta Chigi
- Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Tomoka Katayama
- Department of Advanced Bioscience, Faculty of Agriculture, Kindai University, Nara, Japan
| | - Jafar Sharif
- Laboratory for Developmental Genetics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS), Yokohama, Japan
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Yumi Ito-Matsuoka
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuhisa Matsui
- Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
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4
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Blücher RO, Lim RS, Jarred EG, Ritchie ME, Western PS. FGF-independent MEK1/2 signalling in the developing foetal testis is essential for male germline differentiation in mice. BMC Biol 2023; 21:281. [PMID: 38053127 PMCID: PMC10696798 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01777-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disrupted germline differentiation or compromised testis development can lead to subfertility or infertility and are strongly associated with testis cancer in humans. In mice, SRY and SOX9 induce expression of Fgf9, which promotes Sertoli cell differentiation and testis development. FGF9 is also thought to promote male germline differentiation but the mechanism is unknown. FGFs typically signal through mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) to phosphorylate ERK1/2 (pERK1/2). We explored whether FGF9 regulates male germline development through MAPK by inhibiting either FGF or MEK1/2 signalling in the foetal testis immediately after gonadal sex determination and testis cord formation, but prior to male germline commitment. RESULTS pERK1/2 was detected in Sertoli cells and inhibition of MEK1/2 reduced Sertoli cell proliferation and organisation and resulted in some germ cells localised outside of the testis cords. While pERK1/2 was not detected in germ cells, inhibition of MEK1/2 after somatic sex determination profoundly disrupted germ cell mitotic arrest, dysregulated a broad range of male germline development genes and prevented the upregulation of key male germline markers, DPPA4 and DNMT3L. In contrast, while FGF inhibition reduced Sertoli cell proliferation, expression of male germline markers was unaffected and germ cells entered mitotic arrest normally. While male germline differentiation was not disrupted by FGF inhibition, a range of stem cell and cancer-associated genes were commonly altered after 24 h of FGF or MEK1/2 inhibition, including genes involved in the maintenance of germline stem cells, Nodal signalling, proliferation, and germline cancer. CONCLUSIONS Together, these data demonstrate a novel role for MEK1/2 signalling during testis development that is essential for male germline differentiation, but indicate a more limited role for FGF signalling. Our data indicate that additional ligands are likely to act through MEK1/2 to promote male germline differentiation and highlight a need for further mechanistic understanding of male germline development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rheannon O Blücher
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Rachel S Lim
- Epigenetics and Development Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Ellen G Jarred
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Matthew E Ritchie
- Epigenetics and Development Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Patrick S Western
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.
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Wijayanti D, Luo Y, Bai Y, Pan C, Qu L, Guo Z, Lan X. New insight into copy number variations of goat SMAD2 gene and their associations with litter size and semen quality. Theriogenology 2023; 206:114-122. [PMID: 37229957 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Copy number variations (CNV) contribute significantly to genetic variations. Numerous studies have shown that CNV affects phenotypic traits in livestock. The SMAD family member 2 (SMAD2) is a leading candidate gene in reproduction and has a crucial effect on litter size. Additionally, SMAD2 is also required for male reproduction and influences male germ cell development. However, there are no reports on investigating the effect of CNVs in the SMAD2 gene on reproductive traits in goat. Therefore, the goal of this study was to explore associations between CNV of the SMAD2 gene and litter size and semen quality in Shaanbei white cashmere (SBWC) goats. In this study, two CNVs within the SMAD2 were identified in 352 SBWC goats (50 males and 302 females). The association analysis revealed that only CNV2 was significantly associated with female goat first-born litter size (P = 3.59 × 10-4), male semen concentration (P < 0.01), ejaculation volume, live sperm count, and sperm deformity rate (P < 0.05). In terms of phenotypic performance, the individuals with loss genotypes outperformed those with other genotypes. CNV1 and CNV2 genotype combinations containing their dominant genotypes were also associated with goat litter size (P = 1.7 × 10-5), but no differences in semen quality were found. In summary, CNV2 of the SMAD2 gene is useful for molecular marker-assisted selection breeding, as it is associated with essential goat reproductive traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwi Wijayanti
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Department of Animal Science, Perjuangan University of Tasikmalaya, Tasikmalaya, West Java, 46115, Indonesia.
| | - Yunyun Luo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Yangyang Bai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Chuanying Pan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Lei Qu
- Shaanxi Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center of Cashmere Goats, Yulin University, Yulin, Shaanxi, 719000, PR China; Life Science Research Center, Yulin University, Yulin, Shaanxi, 719000, PR China.
| | - Zhengang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China; Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science of Bijie City, Guizhou, 551700, China.
| | - Xianyong Lan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
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Short telomeres impede germ cell specification by upregulating MAPK and TGFβ signaling. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2023; 66:324-339. [PMID: 36125668 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-022-2151-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Functional telomeres protect chromosome ends and play important roles in stem cell maintenance and differentiation. Short telomeres negatively impact germ cell development and can contribute to age-associated infertility. Moreover, telomere syndrome resulting from mutations of telomerase or telomere-associated genes exhibits short telomeres and reduced fertility. It remains elusive whether and how telomere lengths affect germ cell specification. We report that functional telomere is required for the coordinated germ cell and somatic cell fate decisions. Using telomerase gene Terc deficient mice as a model, we show that short telomeres restrain germ cell specification of epiblast cells but promote differentiation towards somatic lineage. Short telomeres increase chromatin accessibility to elevate TGFβ and MAPK/ERK signaling for somatic cell differentiation. Notably, elevated Fst expression in TGFβ pathway represses the BMP4-pSmad signaling pathway, thus reducing germ cell formation. Re-elongation of telomeres by targeted knock-in of Terc restores normal chromatin accessibility to suppress TGFβ and MAPK signaling, thereby facilitating germ cell formation. Taken together, our data reveal that functional telomeres are required for germ cell specification by repressing TGFβ and MAPK signaling.
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Xie Y, Wu C, Li Z, Wu Z, Hong L. Early Gonadal Development and Sex Determination in Mammal. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147500. [PMID: 35886859 PMCID: PMC9323860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex determination is crucial for the transmission of genetic information through generations. In mammal, this process is primarily regulated by an antagonistic network of sex-related genes beginning in embryonic development and continuing throughout life. Nonetheless, abnormal expression of these sex-related genes will lead to reproductive organ and germline abnormalities, resulting in disorders of sex development (DSD) and infertility. On the other hand, it is possible to predetermine the sex of animal offspring by artificially regulating sex-related gene expression, a recent research hotspot. In this paper, we reviewed recent research that has improved our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development of the gonad and primordial germ cells (PGCs), progenitors of the germline, to provide new directions for the treatment of DSD and infertility, both of which involve manipulating the sex ratio of livestock offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshe Xie
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Changhua Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zicong Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
| | - Linjun Hong
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
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8
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Chen M, Gao F. The Regulation of Gonadal Somatic Cell Differentiation in Humans. GENOMICS, PROTEOMICS & BIOINFORMATICS 2022; 20:219-222. [PMID: 35504504 PMCID: PMC9684145 DOI: 10.1016/j.gpb.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen 518036, China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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9
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Saga Y. How Germ Cells Determine Their Own Sexual Fate in Mice. Sex Dev 2022:1-13. [PMID: 35263749 DOI: 10.1159/000520976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether to produce sperm or eggs is the most basic and important choice from the perspective of germ cell development and differentiation. However, the induction mechanism has not received much attention until relatively recently. This is because the issue of sexual differentiation has generally been considered a theme of somatic cells to make a testis or ovary. Basically, the sex of individual somatic cells and germ cells matches. Therefore, the sex of germ cells is thought to follow the sex of somatic cells once determined. However, researchers realized that a big, open question remained: What somatic cell signals actually induce the sexual differentiation of germ cells and what is the sex determinant in germ cells? SUMMARY In vitro experiments demonstrated that 2 somatic signals (BMP and RA) act directly on germ cells to induce oogonia. Therefore, these 2 signals may be referred to as oogonia inducers. From the viewpoint of germ cells, an independent experiment identified SMAD4 and STRA8, which are directly downstream of BMP and RA, respectively, acting in germ cells as female determinants. However, what about male? If these factors are female determinants, their absence may result in the induction of spermatogonia. This may be true in vivo because germ cells enter a male pathway if they do not receive these signals even in the ovary. However, this has not been confirmed in an in vitro culture system. There should be signals required for germ cells to enter a male pathway. KEY MESSAGES The important message is that although testis-specific factors secreted from the testis are considered to include male-inducing factors for germ cells, this may not be the case, and the male-inducing factor, if it exists, also exists in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumiko Saga
- Mammalian Development Laboratory, Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan.,Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Shimada R, Koike H, Hirano T, Kato Y, Saga Y. NANOS2 suppresses the cell cycle by repressing mTORC1 activators in embryonic male germ cells. iScience 2021; 24:102890. [PMID: 34401671 PMCID: PMC8350546 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
During murine germ cell development, male germ cells enter the mitotically arrested G0 stage, which is an initial step of sexually dimorphic differentiation. The male-specific RNA-binding protein NANOS2 has a key role in suppressing the cell cycle in germ cells. However, the detailed mechanism of how NANOS2 regulates the cell cycle remains unclear. Using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), we extracted the cell cycle state of each germ cell in wild-type and Nanos2-KO testes and revealed that Nanos2 expression starts in mitotic cells and induces mitotic arrest. We identified Rheb, a regulator of mTORC1, and Ptma as possible targets of NANOS2. We propose that repression of the cell cycle is a primary function of NANOS2 and that it is mediated via the suppression of mTORC1 activity through the repression of Rheb in a post-transcriptional manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuki Shimada
- Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Mammalian Development Laboratory, Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Hiroko Koike
- Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Takamasa Hirano
- Mammalian Development Laboratory, Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Yuzuru Kato
- Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Mammalian Development Laboratory, Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Yumiko Saga
- Department of Genetics, SOKENDAI, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Mammalian Development Laboratory, Department of Gene Function and Phenomics, National Institute of Genetics, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Division for the Development of Genetically Engineered Mouse Resources, Genetic Resource Center, National Institute of Genetics, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan.,Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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11
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Webster NJ, Maywald RL, Benton SM, Dawson EP, Murillo OD, LaPlante EL, Milosavljevic A, Lanza DG, Heaney JD. Testicular germ cell tumors arise in the absence of sex-specific differentiation. Development 2021; 148:260592. [PMID: 33912935 DOI: 10.1242/dev.197111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
In response to signals from the embryonic testis, the germ cell intrinsic factor NANOS2 coordinates a transcriptional program necessary for the differentiation of pluripotent-like primordial germ cells toward a unipotent spermatogonial stem cell fate. Emerging evidence indicates that genetic risk factors contribute to testicular germ cell tumor initiation by disrupting sex-specific differentiation. Here, using the 129.MOLF-Chr19 mouse model of testicular teratomas and a NANOS2 reporter allele, we report that the developmental phenotypes required for tumorigenesis, including failure to enter mitotic arrest, retention of pluripotency and delayed sex-specific differentiation, were exclusive to a subpopulation of germ cells failing to express NANOS2. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that embryonic day 15.5 NANOS2-deficient germ cells and embryonal carcinoma cells developed a transcriptional profile enriched for MYC signaling, NODAL signaling and primed pluripotency. Moreover, lineage-tracing experiments demonstrated that embryonal carcinoma cells arose exclusively from germ cells failing to express NANOS2. Our results indicate that NANOS2 is the nexus through which several genetic risk factors influence tumor susceptibility. We propose that, in the absence of sex specification, signals native to the developing testis drive germ cell transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Webster
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Rebecca L Maywald
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Susan M Benton
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Emily P Dawson
- Department of Cell Biology, New York University, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Oscar D Murillo
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Emily L LaPlante
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Denise G Lanza
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jason D Heaney
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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12
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Pellegrini C, Pirazzini C, Sala C, Sambati L, Yusipov I, Kalyakulina A, Ravaioli F, Kwiatkowska KM, Durso DF, Ivanchenko M, Monti D, Lodi R, Franceschi C, Cortelli P, Garagnani P, Bacalini MG. A Meta-Analysis of Brain DNA Methylation Across Sex, Age, and Alzheimer's Disease Points for Accelerated Epigenetic Aging in Neurodegeneration. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:639428. [PMID: 33790779 PMCID: PMC8006465 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.639428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by specific alterations of brain DNA methylation (DNAm) patterns. Age and sex, two major risk factors for AD, are also known to largely affect the epigenetic profiles in brain, but their contribution to AD-associated DNAm changes has been poorly investigated. In this study we considered publicly available DNAm datasets of four brain regions (temporal, frontal, entorhinal cortex, and cerebellum) from healthy adult subjects and AD patients, and performed a meta-analysis to identify sex-, age-, and AD-associated epigenetic profiles. In one of these datasets it was also possible to distinguish 5-methylcytosine (5mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) profiles. We showed that DNAm differences between males and females tend to be shared between the four brain regions, while aging differently affects cortical regions compared to cerebellum. We found that the proportion of sex-dependent probes whose methylation is modified also during aging is higher than expected, but that differences between males and females tend to be maintained, with only a few probes showing age-by-sex interaction. We did not find significant overlaps between AD- and sex-associated probes, nor disease-by-sex interaction effects. On the contrary, we found that AD-related epigenetic modifications are significantly enriched in probes whose DNAm varies with age and that there is a high concordance between the direction of changes (hyper or hypo-methylation) in aging and AD, supporting accelerated epigenetic aging in the disease. In summary, our results suggest that age-associated DNAm patterns concur to the epigenetic deregulation observed in AD, providing new insights on how advanced age enables neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Pellegrini
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Pirazzini
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudia Sala
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Luisa Sambati
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Igor Yusipov
- Institute of Information Technologies, Mathematics and Mechanics, Lobachevsky University, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Alena Kalyakulina
- Institute of Information Technologies, Mathematics and Mechanics, Lobachevsky University, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Francesco Ravaioli
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Katarzyna M. Kwiatkowska
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Danielle F. Durso
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Mikhail Ivanchenko
- Institute of Information Technologies, Mathematics and Mechanics, Lobachevsky University, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Daniela Monti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio,” University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Raffaele Lodi
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Franceschi
- Institute of Information Technologies, Mathematics and Mechanics, Lobachevsky University, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Pietro Cortelli
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Garagnani
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Policlinico S.Orsola-Malpighi Polyclinic, Bologna, Italy
- National Research Council of Italy Institute of Molecular Genetics “Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza,” Unit of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Giulia Bacalini
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Zhang M, Xu P, Sun X, Zhang C, Shi X, Li J, Jiang J, Chen C, Zhang Y, Chen G, Li B, Zuo Q. JUN promotes chicken female differentiation by inhibiting Smad2. Cytotechnology 2021; 73:101-113. [PMID: 33505118 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-020-00447-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The sex determination and control of poultry is a key problem in production and scientific research despite few studies on regulatory factors, especially transcription factors in sex determination. In the early stage of this study, high-throughput sequencing was used to screen the differentially expressed gene JUN in male and female embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and primordial germ cells (PGCs). The qRT-PCR discovered that the JUN gene significantly increased from embryonic days (E) 2.5 later in chicken embryo development, and the female gonad expression was much higher than that of the male after E14.5. Lentivirus shRNA-JUN, shRNA-Smad2 interference, and OE-JUN overexpression vectors were successfully constructed. After interfering with JUN in vivo, male characteristics appeared in ZW embryonic gonads at E18.5. Meanwhile, the male-specific genes DMRT1 and Sox9 were upregulated, the female-specific genes FOXL2, ESR1, and CYP19A1 were downregulated, and the estradiol in the gonads was significantly decreased. The situation was reversed after the overexpression of JUN, ZZ chicken embryo developed into female sexual characteristics. The double luciferase report has found that the Smad2 promoter activity was significantly upregulated after interference with JUN, and significantly increased after the deletion of the JUN binding site. After the injection of the Smad2-shRNA vector into the blood vessel in vivo, it was discovered that DMRT1 and Sox9 of ZW embryos at E18.5 were downregulated, FOXL2 and CYP19A1 were significantly upregulated, and the gonads show femininity. In conclusion, this study proves that JUN is a key regulator in the process of chicken female sex differentiation, which can inhibit the transcription of Smad2 and promote the synthesis of estradiol, and participate in the process of chicken sex differentiation. This study lays a foundation for the analysis of the molecular mechanism of chicken sex determination and the development of poultry sex control technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Pei Xu
- Department of Hematology, The People's Hospital of Taizhou, Taizhou, Jiangsu China
| | - Xiaolin Sun
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Chen Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Xiang Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Jancheng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Jingyi Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Chen Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Yani Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Guohong Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Bichun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
| | - Qisheng Zuo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Molecular Design, Yangzhou University, 88 South University Ave, Yangzhou, 225009 Jiangsu China
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14
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Chao Chen, Jian YY, Zhao XY, Liu YL, Xie QK. The involvement of hsa_circ_0000417 in the development of hypospadias by regulating AR. Differentiation 2020; 116:9-15. [PMID: 33080410 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2020.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital hypospadias is a common congenital malformation of the urinary system in male children. However, the role of circRNA in congenital hypospadias remains unknown. METHODS Differentially expressed circRNAs and mRNAs were identified by RNA sequencing. GO and KEEG analysis were performed to uncover the key function and pathways. The interaction networks were constructed and analyzed by competing endogenous (ce)RNA analysis. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and qRT-PCR were used to detect the expressions of androgen receptor (AR) and hsa_circ_0000417 in normal and hypospadias tissues. Further, the correlation between hsa_circ_0000417 and other clinical indicators were calculated. RESULTS Compared with normal foreskin tissues, 1329 circRNAs and 978 mRNAs were significantly upregulated, 3176 circRNAs and 614 mRNAs were significantly downregulated in hypospadias tissues, respectively. MAPK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways play important roles in congenital hypospadias. The expression of AR and hsa_circ_0000417 in 68 hypospadias tissues was significantly lower than that in 68 normal foreskin tissues (P < 0.05). The expression of the AR, as analyzed using IHC, was consistent with the qPCR results. A significant correlation was noted between the expression of AR and hsa_circ_0000417 in 68 clinical samples (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the expression level of hsa_circ_0000417 was associated with the incidence of other diseases and the location of the hypospadias site (P < 0.05). Expression of hsa_circ_0000417 was significantly downregulated in hypospadias patients without other diseases (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Hsa_circ_0000417 may regulate the expression of AR, and the expression of hsa_circ_0000417 in normal foreskin tissues is associated with the occurrence of hypospadias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Chen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
| | - Yong-Yuan Jian
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Xiang-You Zhao
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Yu-Ling Liu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Qi-Ke Xie
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
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15
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Sorrenti M, Klinger FG, Iona S, Rossi V, Marcozzi S, DE Felici M. Expression and possible roles of extracellular signal-related kinases 1-2 (ERK1-2) in mouse primordial germ cell development. J Reprod Dev 2020; 66:399-409. [PMID: 32418930 PMCID: PMC7593634 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present work, we described the expression and activity of extracellular signal-related kinases 1-2 (ERK1-2) in mouse primordial germ cells (PGCs) from
8.5–14.5 days post coitum (dpc) and investigated whether these kinases play a role in regulating the various processes of PGC development. Using
immunofluorescence and immunoblotting to detect the active phosphorylated form of ERK1-2 (p-ERK1-2), we found that the kinases were present in most
proliferating 8.5–10.5 dpc PGCs, low in 11.5 dpc PGCs, and progressively increasing between 12.5–14.5 dpc both in female and male PGCs. In
vitro culture experiments showed that inhibiting activation of ERK1-2 with the MEK-specific inhibitor U0126 significantly reduced the growth of 8.5
dpc PGCs in culture but had little effect on 11.5–12.5 dpc PGCs. Moreover, we found that the inhibitor did not affect the adhesion of 11.5 dpc PGCs, but it
significantly reduced their motility features onto a cell monolayer. Further, while the ability of female PGCs to begin meiosis was not significantly affected
by U0126, their progression through meiotic prophase I was slowed down. Notably, the activity of ERK1-2 was necessary for maintaining the correct expression of
oocyte-specific genes crucial for germ cells survival and the formation of primordial follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Sorrenti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Francesca Gioia Klinger
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Saveria Iona
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Valerio Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Serena Marcozzi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
| | - Massimo DE Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Section of Histology and Embryology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome 00173, Italy
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16
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Shang Y, Kang Y, Sun J, Wei P, Yang J, Zhang H. MiR-145-modulated SOX9-mediated hypospadias through acting on mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:10397-10410. [PMID: 30565690 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
This study primarily explored how miR-145, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and a downstream transcription factor (i.e., SOX9) mediated development of hypospadias. The hypospadias tissues and preputial tissues were isolated from pediatric inpatients postoperatively. Simultaneously, the rat models of hypospadias were established, and spermatogonial stem cells were separated. The expressions of proteins that symbolized cell apoptosis and oxidative stress were quantified via western blot analysis. Furthermore, the apoptosis, proliferation, and viability of cells were evaluated by means of flow cytometry, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and colony formation assays. The results of microarray indicated miR-145 as a differentially expressed biomarker between hypospadias tissues and normal tissues (p < 0.05). Moreover, rat models of hypospadias were observed with markedly lower vitamins A and E levels, reduced expressions of proteins relevant to oxidative stress (i.e., Nrf2, HO-1, Gpx, and SOD-1), as well as enhanced Bax and cleaved caspase-3 expressions ( p < 0.05). Furthermore, SOX9 was found to be targeted by miR-145, and it was also modified by phosphorylated extracellular-regulated kinase (p-ERK), a portion of MAPK signaling ( p < 0.05). The p-ERK was significantly regulated after altering the expression of miR-145 ( p < 0.05). Moreover, activation of p-ERK and transfection of pcDNA-SOX9 could cause higher expression of apoptins and larger apoptotic proportion of cells ( p < 0.05), yet transfection of miR-145 mimic led to improved cell apoptosis and depressed cell viability ( p < 0.05). In conclusion, SOX9, which was regulated by both miR-145 and miR-145/MAPK signaling, could be involved in the pathogenesis of hypospadias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafeng Shang
- Department of Urology, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang, China
| | - Yanjie Kang
- Department of Urology, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang, China
| | - Jiantao Sun
- Department of Urology, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang, China
| | - Pengtao Wei
- Department of Urology, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang, China
| | - Jinhui Yang
- Department of Urology, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Urology, Luoyang Central Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Luoyang, China
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17
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Dawson EP, Lanza DG, Webster NJ, Benton SM, Suetake I, Heaney JD. Delayed male germ cell sex-specification permits transition into embryonal carcinoma cells with features of primed pluripotency. Development 2018; 145:dev156612. [PMID: 29545285 PMCID: PMC6514421 DOI: 10.1242/dev.156612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Testicular teratomas result from anomalies in embryonic germ cell development. In 129 inbred mice, teratoma initiation coincides with germ cell sex-specific differentiation and the mitotic-meiotic switch: XX and XY germ cells repress pluripotency, XX germ cells initiate meiosis, and XY germ cells activate male-specific differentiation and mitotic arrest. Here, we report that expression of Nanos2, a gene that is crucial to male sex specification, is delayed in teratoma-susceptible germ cells. Decreased expression of Nanos2 was found to be due, in part, to the Nanos2 allele present in 129 mice. In teratoma-susceptible germ cells, diminished expression of genes downstream of Nanos2 disrupted processes that were crucial to male germ cell differentiation. Deficiency for Nanos2 increased teratoma incidence in 129 mice and induced developmental abnormalities associated with tumor initiation in teratoma-resistant germ cells. Finally, in the absence of commitment to the male germ cell fate, we discovered that a subpopulation of teratoma-susceptible germ cells transition into embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells with primed pluripotent features. We conclude that delayed male germ cell sex-specification facilitates the transformation of germ cells with naïve pluripotent features into primed pluripotent EC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily P Dawson
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Denise G Lanza
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Nicholas J Webster
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Susan M Benton
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Isao Suetake
- Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Jason D Heaney
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Dan L Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center For Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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18
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Nagaoka SI, Saitou M. Reconstitution of Female Germ Cell Fate Determination and Meiotic Initiation in Mammals. COLD SPRING HARBOR SYMPOSIA ON QUANTITATIVE BIOLOGY 2017; 82:213-222. [PMID: 29208639 DOI: 10.1101/sqb.2017.82.033803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Meiosis is a fundamental process that underpins sexual reproduction. In mammals, the execution of meiosis is tightly integrated within the complex processes of oogenesis and spermatogenesis, and elucidation of the molecular mechanisms regulating meiotic initiation remains challenging. We have recently developed in vitro culture strategies to induce mouse pluripotent stem cells into germ cells, which successfully contribute to both oogenesis and spermatogenesis and to fertile offspring. The culture strategies faithfully recapitulate transcriptional and epigenetic dynamics as well as signaling principles for germ cell specification, proliferation, and female sex determination/meiotic induction, providing a valuable platform for studies to illuminate the molecular mechanisms underlying such critical processes. Here, we review mammalian gametogenesis with a focus on the implementation of meiosis and, based on our recent studies, discuss new insights into the mechanisms for meiotic initiation and germ cell sex determination in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- So I Nagaoka
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
- JST, ERATO, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Mitinori Saitou
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
- JST, ERATO, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Ushinomiya-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
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19
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Ulu F, Kim SM, Yokoyama T, Yamazaki Y. Dose-dependent functions of fibroblast growth factor 9 regulate the fate of murine XY primordial germ cells. Biol Reprod 2017; 96:122-133. [PMID: 28395336 PMCID: PMC5803787 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.143941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Male differentiation of primordial germ cells (PGCs) is initiated by the inhibition of entry into meiosis and exposure to male-inducing factor(s), which are regulated by somatic elements of the developing gonad. Fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) produced by pre-Sertoli cells is essential for male gonadal differentiation and also contributes to survival and male differentiation of XY PGCs. However, it is not clear how FGF9 regulates PGC fate. Using a PGC culture system, we identified dose-dependent, fate-determining functions of FGF9 in XY PGCs. Treatment with low levels of FGF9 (0.2 ng/ml) increased expression of male-specific Dnmt3L and Nanos2 in XY PGCs. Conversely, treatment with high levels of FGF9 (25 ng/ml) suppressed male-specific gene expression and stimulated proliferation of XY PGCs. Western blotting showed that low FGF9 treatment enhanced p38 MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) phosphorylation in the same cells. In contrast, high FGF9 treatment significantly stimulated the ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase)1/2 signaling pathway in XY PGCs. We investigated the relationship between the ERK1/2 signaling pathway stimulated by high FGF9 and regulation of PGC proliferation. An ERK1/2 inhibitor (U0126) suppressed the PGC proliferation that would otherwise be stimulated by high FGF9 treatment, and increased Nanos2 expression in XY PGCs. Conversely, a p38 MAPK inhibitor (SB202190) significantly suppressed Nanos2 expression that would otherwise be stimulated by low FGF9 in XY PGCs. Taken together, our results suggest that stage-specific expression of FGF9 in XY gonads regulates the balance between proliferation and differentiation of XY PGCs in a dose-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferhat Ulu
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Sung-Min Kim
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Toshifumi Yokoyama
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA.,Department of Animal Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yukiko Yamazaki
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
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20
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Abstract
Sexual reproduction crucially depends on the production of sperm in males and oocytes in females. Both types of gamete arise from the same precursor, the germ cells. We review the events that characterize the development of germ cells during fetal life as they commit to, and prepare for, oogenesis or spermatogenesis. In females, fetal germ cells enter meiosis, whereas in males they delay meiosis and instead lose pluripotency, activate an irreversible program of prospermatogonial differentiation, and temporarily cease dividing. Both pathways involve sex-specific molecular signals from the somatic cells of the developing gonads and a suite of intrinsic receptors, signal transducers, transcription factors, RNA stability factors, and epigenetic modulators that act in complex, interconnected positive and negative regulatory networks. Understanding these networks is important in the contexts of the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility and gonadal cancers, and in efforts to augment human and animal fertility using stem cell approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassy Spiller
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Peter Koopman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Josephine Bowles
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane QLD 4072, Australia
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21
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Wu Q, Fukuda K, Kato Y, Zhou Z, Deng CX, Saga Y. Sexual Fate Change of XX Germ Cells Caused by the Deletion of SMAD4 and STRA8 Independent of Somatic Sex Reprogramming. PLoS Biol 2016; 14:e1002553. [PMID: 27606421 PMCID: PMC5015973 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1002553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The differential programming of sperm and eggs in gonads is a fundamental topic in reproductive biology. Although the sexual fate of germ cells is believed to be determined by signaling factors from sexually differentiated somatic cells in fetal gonads, the molecular mechanism that determines germ cell fate is poorly understood. Herein, we show that mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 4 (SMAD4) in germ cells is required for female-type differentiation. Germ cells in Smad4-deficient ovaries respond to retinoic acid signaling but fail to undergo meiotic prophase I, which coincides with the weaker expression of genes required for follicular formation, indicating that SMAD4 signaling is essential for oocyte differentiation and meiotic progression. Intriguingly, germline-specific deletion of Smad4 in Stra8-null female germ cells resulted in the up-regulation of genes required for male gonocyte differentiation, including Nanos2 and PLZF, suggesting the initiation of male-type differentiation in ovaries. Moreover, our transcriptome analyses of mutant ovaries revealed that the sex change phenotype is achieved without global gene expression changes in somatic cells. Our results demonstrate that SMAD4 and STRA8 are essential factors that regulate the female fate of germ cells. Double ablation of SMAD4 and STRA8 causes female-to-male switching of XX germ cells without affecting somatic cell fate. This suggests that SMAD4 and STRA8 are essential intrinsic factors that determine the female fate of germ cells, collaborating to suppress expression of male genes. Mammalian sex depends on a male-specific gene, sex-determining region Y (SRY), which is located on the Y chromosome. Individuals lacking this gene will develop as female. Accordingly, germ cell fate also changes from male to female in the absence of SRY. Therefore, it is thought that somatic cells regulate germ cells to become sperm or oocytes. However, it is largely unknown what factor is responsible for sexual fate determination in germ cells. In fetal ovaries, retinoic acid (RA) initiates STRA8 expression in germ cells and induces meiosis. Female germ cells without STRA8 fail to enter meiosis but still progress to oogenesis and form oocyte-like cells, indicating that RA is not the regulator of oogenesis. Here, we found that female germ cells lacking both SMAD4 and STRA8 (but not a single knockout) develop as male gonocyte-like cells in ovaries, indicating that these two factors work as female germ cell determinants. To our surprise, the sexual fate switch observed in the double knockout ovary is not accompanied by gene expression changes in somatic cells, revealing the unexpected finding that somatic factors controlled by SRY are dispensable for the upregulation of male-specific genes in germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Wu
- Department of Genetics, Sokendai, Mishima, Japan
- Division of Mammalian Development, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Kurumi Fukuda
- Department of Genetics, Sokendai, Mishima, Japan
- Division of Mammalian Development, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Yuzuru Kato
- Division of Mammalian Development, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Zhi Zhou
- Division of Mammalian Development, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Yumiko Saga
- Department of Genetics, Sokendai, Mishima, Japan
- Division of Mammalian Development, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
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22
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Wang S, Huang G, Hu Q, Zou Q. A network-based method for the identification of putative genes related to infertility. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2016; 1860:2716-24. [PMID: 27102279 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2016.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 04/02/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility has become one of the major health problems worldwide, with its incidence having risen markedly in recent decades. There is an urgent need to investigate the pathological mechanisms behind infertility and to design effective treatments. However, this is made difficult by the fact that various biological factors have been identified to be related to infertility, including genetic factors. METHODS A network-based method was established to identify new genes potentially related to infertility. A network constructed using human protein-protein interactions based on previously validated infertility-related genes enabled the identification of some novel candidate genes. These genes were then filtered by a permutation test and their functional and structural associations with infertility-related genes. RESULTS Our method identified 23 novel genes, which have strong functional and structural associations with previously validated infertility-related genes. CONCLUSIONS Substantial evidence indicates that the identified genes are strongly related to dysfunction of the four main biological processes of fertility: reproductive development and physiology, gametogenesis, meiosis and recombination, and hormone regulation. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE The newly discovered genes may provide new directions for investigating infertility. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "System Genetics" Guest Editor: Dr. Yudong Cai and Dr. Tao Huang.
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Affiliation(s)
- ShaoPeng Wang
- College of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China.
| | - GuoHua Huang
- College of Life Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China.
| | - Qinghua Hu
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; State Key Laboratory of System Bioengineering of the Ministry of Education, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Quan Zou
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, NanKai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
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23
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Windley SP, Wilhelm D. Signaling Pathways Involved in Mammalian Sex Determination and Gonad Development. Sex Dev 2016; 9:297-315. [PMID: 26905731 DOI: 10.1159/000444065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of any organ system requires a complex interplay of cellular signals to initiate the differentiation and development of the heterogeneous cell and tissue types required to carry out the organs' functions. In this way, an extracellular stimulus is transmitted to an intracellular target through an array of interacting protein intermediaries, ultimately enabling the target cell to elicit a response. Surprisingly, only a small number of signaling pathways are implicated throughout embryogenesis and are used over and over again. Gonadogenesis is a unique process in that 2 morphologically distinct organs, the testes and ovaries, arise from a common precursor, the bipotential genital ridge. Accordingly, most of the signaling pathways observed throughout embryogenesis also have been shown to be important for mammalian sex determination and gonad development. Here, we review the mechanisms of signal transduction within these pathways and the importance of these pathways throughout mammalian gonad development, mainly concentrating on data obtained in mouse but including other species where appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon P Windley
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
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24
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Chojnacka K, Zarzycka M, Mruk DD. Biology of the Sertoli Cell in the Fetal, Pubertal, and Adult Mammalian Testis. Results Probl Cell Differ 2016; 58:225-251. [PMID: 27300181 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-31973-5_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
A healthy man typically produces between 50 × 10(6) and 200 × 10(6) spermatozoa per day by spermatogenesis; in the absence of Sertoli cells in the male gonad, this individual would be infertile. In the adult testis, Sertoli cells are sustentacular cells that support germ cell development by secreting proteins and other important biomolecules that are essential for germ cell survival and maturation, establishing the blood-testis barrier, and facilitating spermatozoa detachment at spermiation. In the fetal testis, on the other hand, pre-Sertoli cells form the testis cords, the future seminiferous tubules. However, the role of pre-Sertoli cells in this process is much less clear than the function of Sertoli cells in the adult testis. Within this framework, we provide an overview of the biology of the fetal, pubertal, and adult Sertoli cell, highlighting relevant cell biology studies that have expanded our understanding of mammalian spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Chojnacka
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Marta Zarzycka
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Dolores D Mruk
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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25
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Rossitto M, Philibert P, Poulat F, Boizet-Bonhoure B. Molecular events and signalling pathways of male germ cell differentiation in mouse. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2015; 45:84-93. [PMID: 26454096 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Germ cells, the precursors of gametes, represent a unique cell lineage that is able to differentiate into spermatozoa or oocytes depending on the chromosomal sex of the organism. In the mammalian embryonic gonad, commitment to oogenesis involves pre-meiotic DNA replication and entry into the first meiotic division; whereas, commitment to spermatogenesis involves inhibition of meiotic initiation, suppression of pluripotency, mitotic arrest and expression of specific markers that will control the development of the male germ cells. The crucial decision made by the germ line to commit to either a male or a female fate has been partially explained by genetic and ex vivo studies in mice which have implicated a complex network of regulatory genes, numerous factors and pathways. Besides the reproductive failure that may follow a deregulation of this complex network, the germ cells may, in view of their proliferative and pluripotent nature, act as precursors of potential malignant transformation and as putative targets for exogenous environmental compounds. Our review summarizes and discusses recent developments that have improved our understanding on how germ cell precursors are committed to a male or a female cell fate in the mouse gonad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moïra Rossitto
- Genetic and Development Department, Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UPR1142, Montpellier, France.
| | - Pascal Philibert
- Genetic and Development Department, Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UPR1142, Montpellier, France.
| | - Francis Poulat
- Genetic and Development Department, Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UPR1142, Montpellier, France.
| | - Brigitte Boizet-Bonhoure
- Genetic and Development Department, Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UPR1142, Montpellier, France.
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26
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Young JC, Wakitani S, Loveland KL. TGF-β superfamily signaling in testis formation and early male germline development. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2015; 45:94-103. [PMID: 26500180 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The TGF-β ligand superfamily contains at least 40 members, many of which are produced and act within the mammalian testis to facilitate formation of sperm. Their progressive expression at key stages and in specific cell types determines the fertility of adult males, influencing testis development and controlling germline differentiation. BMPs are essential for the interactive instructions between multiple cell types in the early embryo that drive initial specification of gamete precursors. In the nascent foetal testis, several ligands including Nodal, TGF-βs, Activins and BMPs, serve as key masculinizing switches by regulating male germline pluripotency, somatic and germline proliferation, and testicular vascularization and architecture. In postnatal life, local production of these factors determine adult testis size by regulating Sertoli cell multiplication and differentiation, in addition to specifying germline differentiation and multiplication. Because TGF-β superfamily signaling is integral to testis formation, it affects processes that underlie testicular pathologies, including testicular cancer, and its potential to contribute to subfertility is beginning to be understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia C Young
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shoichi Wakitani
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
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27
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Suzuki H, Kanai-Azuma M, Kanai Y. From Sex Determination to Initial Folliculogenesis in Mammalian Ovaries: Morphogenetic Waves along the Anteroposterior and Dorsoventral Axes. Sex Dev 2015; 9:190-204. [DOI: 10.1159/000440689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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28
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Nettersheim D, Jostes S, Sharma R, Schneider S, Hofmann A, Ferreira HJ, Hoffmann P, Kristiansen G, Esteller MB, Schorle H. BMP Inhibition in Seminomas Initiates Acquisition of Pluripotency via NODAL Signaling Resulting in Reprogramming to an Embryonal Carcinoma. PLoS Genet 2015; 11:e1005415. [PMID: 26226633 PMCID: PMC4520454 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Type II germ cell cancers (GCC) can be subdivided into seminomas and non-seminomas. Seminomas are similar to carcinoma in situ (CIS) cells, the common precursor of type II GCCs, with regard to epigenetics and expression, while embryonal carcinomas (EC) are totipotent and differentiate into teratomas, yolk-sac tumors and choriocarcinomas. GCCs can present as seminomas with a non-seminoma component, raising the question if a CIS gives rise to seminomas and ECs at the same time or whether seminomas can be reprogrammed to ECs. In this study, we utilized the seminoma cell line TCam-2 that acquires an EC-like status after xenografting into the murine flank as a model for a seminoma to EC transition and screened for factors initiating and driving this process. Analysis of expression and DNA methylation dynamics during transition of TCam-2 revealed that many pluripotency- and reprogramming-associated genes were upregulated while seminoma-markers were downregulated. Changes in expression level of 53 genes inversely correlated to changes in DNA methylation. Interestingly, after xenotransplantation 6 genes (GDF3, NODAL, DNMT3B, DPPA3, GAL, AK3L1) were rapidly induced, followed by demethylation of their genomic loci, suggesting that these 6 genes are poised for expression driving the reprogramming. We demonstrate that inhibition of BMP signaling is the initial event in reprogramming, resulting in activation of the pluripotency-associated genes and NODAL signaling. We propose that reprogramming of seminomas to ECs is a multi-step process. Initially, the microenvironment causes inhibition of BMP signaling, leading to induction of NODAL signaling. During a maturation phase, a fast acting NODAL loop stimulates its own activity and temporarily inhibits BMP signaling. During the stabilization phase, a slow acting NODAL loop, involving WNTs re-establishes BMP signaling and the pluripotency circuitry. In parallel, DNMT3B-driven de novo methylation silences seminoma-associated genes and epigenetically fixes the EC state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Nettersheim
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Developmental Pathology, University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sina Jostes
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Developmental Pathology, University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rakesh Sharma
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Developmental Pathology, University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Simon Schneider
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Developmental Pathology, University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andrea Hofmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Humberto J Ferreira
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Per Hoffmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Glen Kristiansen
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
| | - Manel B Esteller
- Cancer Epigenetics and Biology Program (PEBC), Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute, L'Hospitalet, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Department of Physiological Sciences II, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Institute of Pathology, Department of Developmental Pathology, University Medical School, Bonn, Germany
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